A TEENAGE couple were killed when their motorbike collided with two tractors on a rural road.

Abbey Parker, 17, of Mayland, and Bradley Cooper, 18, of South Woodham Ferrers, were on their way to a charity motorcycle ride when the blue Yamaha bike they were riding crashed in Lower Burnham Road, North Fambridge.

It was involved in an accident with two tractors, colliding first with a red and black Case International tractor and then a green and yellow tractor.

The young couple died at the scene, where dozens of flowers and tributes have since been laid.

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incident, which occurred at 9.30am on Sunday.

They arrested a 43-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by driving while uninsured.

He has since been released on bail.

The young couple had been in a relationship after meeting at William de Ferrers School.

Deputy head Andrew Merchant said: "The whole school is very sad to hear the news following the death of our two ex-pupils.

"Our prayers and thoughts go out to both families.

"They were both very friendly pupils who were well liked by their fellow students.

"Some of Abbey's school friends still attend the school and we have all been reflecting on the good memories we have of them both.

"It was such a shock and a tragedy that these two lives have been cut so short."